Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow is an overuse / repetitive stress injury(RSI) to the tendons on the outside of the elbow and forearm. These muscles attach to the outside of the elbow and travel down across the wrist to control and wrist movements. With this type of soft tissue injury the body will deposit scar tissue adhesions in and around the injured area in an attempt to heal and stabilize the area. Over time this scar tissue can build-up and interfere with the normal function of the muscles. These adhesions must be addressed to fully resolve the condition. Symptoms of Tennis elbow are most commonly felt over the outside of the elbow, particularly when lifting or grasping objects. This injury often occurs in sports such as tennis, but is also common in a non-athlete population as well, especially in activities and occupations involving use of the hands and lifting.

Our Approach

Myofascial Release Technique (MRT) is very effective in addressing the underlying adhesion formation not only in the tendons but in the surrounding musculature of the elbow and forearm as well. Sometimes, low intensity laser therapyis used to help settle inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. Any biomechanical dysfunction at the wrist or elbow must also be addressed to ensure complete resolution of the tendonitis and to prevent future recurrences. As the pain and inflammation subsidefunctional rehabilitation exercisesmust be undertaken to make certain adequate strength and endurance of the tendons and surrounding musculature is returned to pre-injury status.